"Free From" Formulations

Posted: March 25, 2008

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In the UK, new organic brand Forest Secrets launched iRejuvenate Lifting Pro-Youth Face Oil. This hydrating and firming oil is described as “an extraordinary selection of the purest and most potent natural oils, sourced from around the world.” It is formulated with antiaging lady thistle oil, argan oil, organic apricot oil, organic Chilean rosehip oil, fair trade marula oil and patented lupin seed extract. All Forest Secrets products reportedly are biodegradable and packaged using sustainable materials. They are free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, artificial colors, PEGs, genetically modified organisms, allergens, petrochemicals, silicones and animal by-products.

Minimizing ingredients can facilitate green formulating. A'kin Pure Radiance Rosehip Oil contains certified organic Rosa canina seed extract, said to reduce the appearance of age spots, fine lines and wrinkles. All A'kin products are said to be free from sulfates, ethoxylates, parabens, propylene glycol, petrochemical cleansers, silicones, phthalates, mineral oil, diethanolamine and artificial colors. The brand also claims to be vegan and is committed to meeting high levels of environmental practice both in the production of products and in the day-to-day running of the business.

In France, Themis Protocole Aqua-Balance Restorative Serum is an organic product formulated with Fairtrade mango and melon oil. The dermatologically tested product has a 100% natural fragrance and is free from parabens, phenoxyethanol and artificial colorings. The formula is not tested on animals. The pack displays the Cosmebio logo, which guarantees that the production methods respect health and the environment.

Organic Luxury Company is a new French organic brand available at Le Bon Marche. The OLC Expertise Botanique Daily Moisturizing Cream is formulated with a polysaccharide, echinacea extract, arnica and calendula oils, hamamelis floral water and vitamin E. The product is said to leave a long-lasting sensation of suppleness and to have anti-wrinkle qualities. Its ingredients are said to be 98% natural and 14% are organic. It was tested under dermatological control. OLC products display the Cosmebio logo certifying that production methods respect health and the environment and that products are free from paraben, phenoxyethanol, silicone, synthetic fragrances and genetically modified ingredients. They come in recyclable packaging and are not tested on animals.

The “free from” claim is not limited to organic and natural products. NovExpert is a French cosmeceutical brand available in parapharmacies. The Regeneration Mask contains Novaxyline, a patented active ingredient said to fight UV radiation. It also contains extracts of rosemary, star anise, orange blossom, shea and kokurn butters, sunflower and ximenia oils, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. The product is free from preservatives including parabens and phenoxyethanol, fragrance, mineral oils and artificial colorings. It is guaranteed to be hypoallergenic and is tested under dermatological control. The brand is said to be committed to the protection of fauna, flora and the air.